Investigations into Cases of Swan Mortality in Iran

OIE Alerts Message
Edited by ProMed
7 Feb 2006
Dr Hossein Hassani, Head of Iran Veterinary Organization (IVO), Ministry of Jihad-e-Agriculture
Photo: TrekNature


On 2 Feb 2006, within the framework of the Avian Influenza Passive Surveillance Plan in place for wild birds in Gilan province, there was a report describing a few mortalities among swans in 2 wetlands (Selkeh and Espand). Immediately, all specific activities were implemented according to OIE guidelines and recommendations, all of the native birds in 6 villages considered as epidemiological units at risk (within a 2-km radius) were destroyed and sampled and their
owners were compensated by IVO.

Sera were tested using haemagglutination inhibition (H5, H9 and Newcastle disease) and tissue samples were tested by RT-PCR. All results were negative.

Tissue samples taken from swans will be sent tomorrow morning to the OIE Reference Laboratory for Avian Influenza and Newcastle disease in Padua, Italy, in order to perform some virological tests.

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OIE Animal Health Information Department


[Swan mortality due to H5N1 has been observed in Mongolia, Romania, Croatia and Russia
(Astrakhan region). Results of the laboratory investigations at Weybridge and Padua are anticipated with concern. - Mod.AS]

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